Mark Jackson, George Karl react to NBA fine in Warriors-Nuggets series

Prior to Game 6 of the first-round series between the Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets, the NBA fined Warriors head coach Mark Jackson $25,000 for “making public comments in an attempt to influence the officiating.”

In their pregame press conferences, both Mark Jackson and Nuggets’ head coach George Karl addressed the NBA’s fine. Here’s what they had to say:

Mark Jackson: For two years, I’ve taken pride in not ever criticizing the referees. In reading the statement about the fine, I’m glad I was not fined for criticizing the referees. … I’m $25,000 lighter, but I’m smiling. … I don’t like it. I disagree. But that will take care of itself. … Right now, I have business at hand — to coach this team.”

George Karl (on the Jackson fine): “I have no idea. Interesting interpretation. I’m afraid I don’t want to get fined. … Physicality is a part of the game. Every team has elbow-ass guys.” Asked to define elbow-ass players, Karl said “The game is played a lot with parts of your body. The butt is part of your body.”

Who were Karl’s all-time favorite elbow-ass players: He mentioned Charles Oakley and former Warrior Larry Smith.